When I first got a smart plug, I used it to remotely turn devices on and off. Soon enough, I had access to detailed energy consumption reports for appliances that were connected to it. It was all I needed at that point: an automation tool for dumb appliances around the house, say portable fans, lights, and more. But then it hit me, if a smart plug could remotely control power, track energy usage, and show the active power draw, it would be more useful as a troubleshooting tool.